The post Marina Bay Sands reports net revenue increase for end-2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Marina Bay Sands’ parent company Las Vegas Sands reported that the Singaporean mixed-use complex generated a net revenue of US$1.14 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024.

This is 24.05 percent higher than that recorded in Q3-2024, and reflects a 7.2 percent increase year-on-year.

MBS’ adjusted property earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) was US$537 million, lower by 1.3 percent from where it was in the same period in 2023.

However, the Q4-2024 EBITDA was up by 32.27 percent in quarter-on-quarter terms.

Likewise, MBS’ gaming revenues were up 6.44 percent year on year, settling at US$792 million; non-gaming revenue, on the other hand, was at US$345 million, up 7.81 percent.

Total hotel occupancy for Q4-2024 was at 93.4 percent, thanks primarily to holiday-centric bookings.

Las Vegas Sands chair and chief executive Robert G Goldstein said of the Q4-2024 figures: “MBS continued to deliver outstanding financial and operating performance. Our new suite product and elevated service offerings position us for additional growth as travel and tourism spending in Asia expands.”

Paying for expansion

Following the Marina Bay Sands revenue report, Las Vegas Sands announced that it is paying the Singapore government US$1 billion following certain changes made to the expansion plans for the mixed-use development.

Filed last 10th January, the changes involve an increase in the overall gaming area allocation, as well as other vital amendments.

Based on the adjustments, the company needs to purchase an additional 2,000 square meters of approved gaming area and a further 10,000 square meters in support of the gaming area from the STB.

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The post 45 million visitors travelled to Hong Kong in 2024 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Tourism Board (HKTB) announced that the provisional full-year visitor arrivals for 2024 were close to 45 million, up 31% year on year. In December, Hong Kong received 4.26 million visitors, an increase of 8% year on year.

Southeast Asian markets showed strong performance Arrivals from long-haul markets grew by 50% year on year

The Mainland remained the largest visitor source market for Hong Kong, contributing to about 34 million visitor arrivals, up 27% year on year. Mainland visitors also accounted for about three quarters of all visitors last year. Arrivals during the Lunar New Year holidays, Labour Day and National Day Golden Weeks were satisfactory.

Hong Kong received a total of 10.5 million non-Mainland visitors in 2024, up 44% from previous year. As flight capacity continued to increase, non-Mainland visitor arrivals exceeded a million for two consecutive months in November and December 2024. Among short-haul arrivals, Southeast Asian markets were impressive, especially the Philippines, with a record-breaking annual total of 1.2 million visitors from the country. Arrivals from Indonesia and Malaysia increased by 43% and 50% year on year respectively, and the number of Indian visitors increased by more than 70% from 2023.

As flight capacity gradually resumed, visitors from long-haul markets, including the US, Canada, Australia and Europe, also grew by more than 50%. Canada and Australia performed exceptionally well in the fourth quarter.

Overnight visitors accounted for half of all visitors, with a high visitor satisfaction rate

Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director, said, “Last year, HKTB made a great effort to organise and promote mega events in Hong Kong, while enhancing the visitor experience. We also launched various promotions targeting different markets and segments and stepped up our efforts to drive Hong Kong’s development as a Muslim-friendly destination. In 2024, we rolled out a new hospitality campaign and a series of related promotions.”

“Leveraging various new measures benefitting Hong Kong announced by the Central Government and the new ‘Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0’, together with our core tourism appeal, HKTB will do its best to step up promotions in target markets and visitor segments to attract visitors with a wide range of tourism products and experiences. We hope to attract not only one-time visitors, but visitors who look forward to visiting Hong Kong repeatedly.”

 

 

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The post Malaysia celebrates tourist arrivals for Chinese New Year festivities appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

As part of promoting the exciting Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, this year’s vibrant Chinese New Year celebrations were further enlivened by welcoming events for domestic and international tourists at four major airports across the country.

At Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 today, Mr Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, representing YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture; presented mandarin oranges and souvenirs to tourists at the Arrival Hall. Also in attendance were representatives from the Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA), Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), and airlines.

The celebrations came alive as Mr Lee Thai Hung and distinguished guests joined the “yee sang” tossing tradition, a symbolic gesture of abundance and prosperity. Tourists were then captivated by the sights and sounds of Malaysian traditional dances, followed by the energetic lion dance, a hallmark of Chinese New Year festivities. Adding to the charm, the VM2026 mascots – Wira and Manja, made a delightful appearance, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

In addition to KLIA, similar welcoming events for tourists were also held at Penang International Airport in Bayan Lepas, Penang; Kota Kinabalu International Airport in Sabah; and Kuching International Airport in Sarawak.

 

 

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The post Malaysia Airlines teams up with Mercedes-Benz to serve elite clientele appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Malaysia Airlines’ parent firm Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) formally entered a strategic partnership with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

This new partnership was designed to redefine luxury services and elevate overall customer experience for their elite clientele. 

The collaboration was unveiled at an exclusive event held at Hap Seng Star Setia Alam, showcasing a shared commitment to unparalleled luxury and convenience.

As of 16th January, Malaysia Airlines offers a fleet of luxury sedans from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia under its Private Terminal Transfer Service. 

The fleet includes Mercedes-Benz S 580 e Plug-in Hybrid sedans and all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS 500 4MATIC models. 

This 24-hour service will facilitate seamless transfers for eligible passengers between KLIA Terminal 1’s Main Terminal and the Satellite Building.

Enhancing the travel experience together

According to MAG chief executive for loyalty and travel services Philip See: “We are dedicated to enhancing travel experiences by elevating service standards. Our partnership with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia ensures Enrich members and elite passengers enjoy premium comfort. This supports our efforts to enhance in-flight and on-ground offerings, reinforcing Malaysia Airlines’ premium service. In addition, through exclusive privileges and curated engagements, we strive to elevate the Enrich experience, ensuring seamless and rewarding journeys beyond flying. We remain committed to delivering exceptional service that reflects Malaysian Hospitality.”

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and CEO Amanda Zhang added: “At Mercedes-Benz, our mission is to craft extraordinary experiences, what we call Mercedes Moments, where cutting-edge technology meets timeless elegance to make every journey unforgettable. Partnering with Malaysia Aviation Group allows us to elevate luxury travel experiences for our customers and Enrich members, setting new benchmarks in exclusivity and sophistication. Being ranked consecutively as the ‘most valuable luxury automotive brand’ in Interbrand’s Best Global Brands 2024 reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence. We are excited to embark on this journey together to redefine customer service and luxury.”

A luxurious shared commitment

This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Malaysia Airlines to delivering exceptional experiences. 

Customers can look forward to privileged offerings, including invitation to exclusive curated lifestyle events, special vehicle incentives, and seamless travel services. 

Together, these offerings combine the strengths of both brands to create unforgettable moments.

Other benefits include:

• Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich Platinum and Gold members will enjoy specially curated #MyMercedesRewards on selected Mercedes-Benz all-electric and plug-in hybrid models, delivering an exclusive ownership experience tailored for its distinguished members. Additionally, members who purchase a new Mercedes-Benz car this year, will have the opportunity to participate in an exclusive top-tier journey to Germany, offering a unique experience into the world of Mercedes-Benz. Terms and conditions apply.
• Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich Platinum and Gold members will enjoy access to exclusive Mercedes-Benz Malaysia events delivering unparalleled luxury experiences. Likewise, Mercedes-Benz customers will have the opportunity to participate in exclusive Malaysia Airlines’ Enrich events, curated to provide extraordinary travel and lifestyle privileges that reflect the pinnacle of premium service.
• Starting 1 March 2025, customers who purchase Mercedes-Benz vehicles will enjoy year-round access to Malaysia Airlines’ Private Terminal Transfer Service, ensuring a luxurious and convenient journey when travelling on Malaysia Airlines.

By merging the innovative luxury of Mercedes-Benz with the world-class hospitality of MAG, this partnership sets a new standard for premium services in the region.

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The post Seamless payments via Alipay+ boost global travel for the Lunar New Year appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

Right on time for the Lunar New Year, Alipay+ teamed up with leading global merchants to launch exclusive campaigns for those travelling during the festive season.

In Singapore, for example, Alipay+’s collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board lets travellers purchase discounted vouchers for use with taxis or at shopping malls and attractions.

In Switzerland, on the other hand, the Geneva Tourism Board is using Alipay+ to enhance the travel experience for tourists coming to the country.

At present, Alipay+ supports more than 35 international wallet and bank payment partners, connecting 1.6 billion user accounts to more than 90 million merchants in 66 markets. 

According to Douglas Feagin, president of Alipay+ parent firm Ant International: “Tourism is playing an increasingly significant role in local economies, accelerating growth for merchants across sectors, but businesses need to adapt to new digital habits and preferences. Starting with mobile payments, Alipay+ offers merchants solutions to connect, engage and retain customers who want to leverage technology to enhance their travel experiences.”

Where in the world can people use Alipay+?

Alipay+’s partnerships with the likes of Resorts World Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands, Central Retail, King Power, Pavilion KL, and Lotte World have been instrumental in building up both in-store and in-app engagement through enhanced rewards.

Those travelling through China can use Alipay and 13 international payment apps to make seamless payments. 

Those using platforms like AlipayHK, Mpay, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, TrueMoney, and GCash have access to seasonal offers from more than a hundred Consumer Friendly Zones in cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.

Likewise,over two  million merchants in South Korea accept Alipay+ whilst offering a number of discounts, while the nationwide NAMANE x Alipay+ Transit Pass Card programme makes it easier for tourists to travel via bus or commuter railway.

In Japan, Alipay+ is accepted by more than three million merchants, while in Southeast Asia, users can make payments via DuitNow in Malaysia, SGQR in Singapore, whilst availing of promotions at retailers like Pavilion KL and Central Retail in Thailand.

Alipay+ is also expanding its reach in the Philippines via retailers like SM Supermalls and resorts such as Hennan Group of Resorts.

The Alipay+ network also expanded recently to include Kazakhstan’s Kaspi.kz and the BigPay platform used in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

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The post New MCIA Runway to boost Central Visayas tourism appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the establishment of the first parallel runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA), one of the country’s major gateways located in the province of Cebu.

In 2024, the MCIA admitted a total of 11,315,225 passengers, a growth of 13 percent compared to 2023 data. Of the total, 8,506,299 were domestic passengers while 2,808,926 were international passengers.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the expanded MCIA runway would “strengthen Cebu’s position as a top tourist destination, cementing its standing as a premier gateway to the islands of Visayas and Mindanao, and boost tourism in Central Visayas by improving accessibility for international and domestic visitors”

An expanded runway is crucial for enhancing aviation safety, accommodating larger aircraft, and improving airport operational efficiency. It provides essential space for safe takeoffs and landings, especially under adverse weather conditions, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.

“This is a major win for Philippine tourism with such an elevation of tourism infrastructure under the Marcos Administration. Increasing flight frequencies and passenger capacity up to 18 million at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport through the parallel runway benefits all stakeholders in the aviation and tourism sectors, with added accessibility to our island destinations in Cebu, the Visayas and Mindanao. This influx would not only bolster the local economy but also promote cultural exchange and foster greater global connectivity. We are grateful for this parallel runway at MCIA which would significantly improve the overall travel experience while driving growth and sustainability in the aviation and tourism industries,” said the Tourism Chief.

“The new runway of the MCIA would also help in Cebu’s potential to grow its tourism industry, especially in dive tourism and in the meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (MICE) wherein the province currently thrives. More importantly, this could support Cebu’s major tourism events and festivals such as the Sinulog Festival,” added the tourism chief referring to the celebration of the Sto. Niño de Cebu that draws millions of devotees and tourists each year.

The Tourism Chief attended the inauguration of the MCIA’s first parallel runway led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. In his speech, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted “There is something special about Cebu. It’s a place where history and progress come together very gracefully, where tradition converges with innovation, and where the grit and tenacity of its people shine brightly in every achievement.”

“This new runway at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport reflects the very essence of Cebu: it is dynamic, promising, and always ready to take on challenges. And just as Cebu has been a center of trade and tourism, this parallel runway symbolizes the unrelenting drive to connect, and to grow, and to lead,” The President added.

Frasco noted that “This landmark project perfectly aligns with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028, wherein two of its three key strategies are connectivity and convenience. It will enhance accessibility and help improve the overall experience of tourists visiting our country’s breathtaking sites and immersing in our rich

cultural experiences.”

According to the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the inauguration of the first parallel runway at Mactan-Cebu International Airport marks a major milestone in Philippine aviation, improving air traffic efficiency and regional connectivity, and would result in an increased aircraft movement capacity of 30 per hour to 40 per hour as well as “decrease the wear and tear of the runways as two runways will now alternately be used.”

 

 

 

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The post A reimagined W Maldives offering nature-inspired 77 villas to reopen in March 2025 appeared first on TD (Travel Daily Media) Travel Daily Media.

W Maldives, the iconic luxury resort nestled in the North Ari Atoll, is set to welcome guests back on 1st March 2025 with a bold, full-scale transformation that redefines the island escape. After nearly two decades as a trailblazer in luxury Maldivian hospitality, the resort will reopen with an entirely reimagined design and elevated guest experience that combines W’s signature free spirit with the island’s natural splendour.

“We are excited to introduce a completely reimagined W Maldives to the world,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “This transformation is a bold step forward, blending the distinctive W spirit with the incredible natural beauty of the Maldives. We are confident that our guests will find not only a luxurious escape, but a dynamic and unforgettable experience that reflects the true essence of paradise.”

The Essence of the Transformation: The Original Wavemaker Returns

At the heart of this transformation lies a refreshed vision for what W Maldives represents: a place where W’s signature playful spirit meets elevated luxury. W Maldives remains as bold as ever, with a unique “Above and Below the Water” design philosophy that integrates the surrounding ocean and natural landscapes with cutting-edge architecture and interiors. This bold bio-boho aesthetic is inspired by the rich marine life and lush flora of the island, blending the island’s raw beauty with a sense of contemporary sophistication that is distinctly W.

The resort’s nature-inspired 77 villas—overwater and beachfront—have been meticulously redesigned to reflect the vibrancy of the island’s natural beauty while maintaining a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Each villa—whether suspended above the lagoon or nestled along the pristine beach— has been carefully crafted to harmonise with the stunning natural surroundings, blending sustainable materials, natural tones, and ocean-inspired accents with splashes of colour and bold accents to create sanctuaries for an exclusive and immersive escape.

The Superior and Premier One-Bedroom Overwater Villas (149 sqm) feature spacious, open-plan layouts with private decks overlooking the turquoise waters, and floor-to-ceiling windows that connect guests to the island’s endless horizon. For beachside tranquillity, the Escape One-Bedroom Beach Villas (188 sqm) offer a lush, open-air retreat with mangrove-inspired accents, custom furnishings, and starlit outdoor bathrooms for a unique natural experience. Larger groups can indulge in the expansive Supreme and Oasis Two-Bedroom Overwater Villas (323-492 sqm) or Oasis Two-Bedroom Beach Villas (376 sqm), the newest addition to W Maldives’ villa categories, each with en-suite bathrooms, private whirlpools, extensive outdoor decks and two-story private water slides that slip directly into the pool. Each villa is fully outfitted with W’s MIXBAR, IPTV, and premium sound systems, ensuring an extraordinary balance of style, comfort, and connectivity.

A New Vision for Dining and Culinary Experiences

W Maldives is also redefining its culinary offerings, elevating the island’s dining experience with bold new concepts and global influences. At the core of this transformation is the resort’s signature restaurant, FISH, which will introduce an “Ocean-to-Table” experience that highlights the freshest local seafood, line-caught and sustainably sourced from local fishermen. Combining innovative techniques with global culinary traditions, FISH offers guests a chance to savour the rich flavours of the ocean while experiencing the dynamic vibrancy of Maldivian culture.

The resort’s refreshed concept, SIP, will offer a dining experience inspired by Latin America, blending its vibrant culinary heritage with a relaxed island setting. Guests can enjoy a selection of bold, flavor-driven dishes paired with signature cocktails, all set against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.

FIRE, the resort’s Beachside Smokehouse concept, will elevate the BBQ experience by offering wood-fired cuisine with high-quality steak cuts and chef’s table service in a stunning beachfront setting. This communal dining experience is designed to bring guests together over expertly grilled meats and seafood, infused with smoky flavours that create an intimate and lively atmosphere. Whether dining under the stars or watching the waves crash nearby, FIRE promises an unforgettable experience where food and the island’s natural beauty come together.

An Unmatched Collection of Experiences

In addition to its reimagined accommodations and dining offerings, W Maldives continues to redefine the island getaway experience with its exclusive programming and events. With a calendar filled with exciting, immersive experiences, the resort’s dynamic lineup will include Marriott Bonvoy Moments in 2025, along with a variety of planned collaborations with world-renowned chefs, mixologists, artists, and brands. One such highlight will be the exclusive W Presents event in March, which promises to deliver a unique cultural and social experience infused with the vibrant music that is signature to W Hotels. This carefully curated programming will offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in local and global creativity, adding an unforgettable layer to their stay.

Guests can also explore the vibrant marine life of the Maldives with a variety of exciting water experiences. Whether through snorkelling in the resort’s world-renowned house reef, diving with the DOWN UNDER Dive Centre, or indulging in water sports through the WAVE Water Sports Centre, guests are invited to dive into the crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant aquatic life just steps from the beach.

For those seeking ultimate privacy, Gaathafushi Island, the resort’s private island, offers a secluded escape where guests can disconnect from the world and experience the ultimate in luxury. Whether it’s spending the day enjoying the natural beauty of the island or booking a night for a Robinson Crusoe-style retreat, Gaathafushi provides a completely personalised experience.

Unrivalled Wellness and Fitness

W Maldives also offers a range of wellness and fitness experiences designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. The AWAY Spa is the ultimate escape for relaxation, offering a wide range of treatments that combine natural ingredients with soothing therapies, all set against the backdrop of the island’s turquoise ocean. From massages to body scrubs, each treatment is designed to restore balance and enhance well-being.

 

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